Pharmacotoxicology of chemical and biological terrorism

Terrorism is the threat or implementation of violent means to undermine, destabilize, inflict harm, or cause panic in a society. The public's awareness of a variety of potential resources that could be used in terrorist threats has prompted unprecedented societal responses. Terrorist methods include the use of radiological, chemical, and biological agents capable of widespread mass casualties and destruction. The ease of availability, the low cost of production, and the potential for widespread dissemination of these means of destruction make them very attractive weapons. For these reasons, a basic understanding of pharmacotoxicology should be an essential part of the pharmacy school curriculum.